Where there is life, there must be growth.

. . . The new birth is not the end; it is the beginning. God gives His children all that they need to live godly lives, but His children must apply themselves and be diligent to use the "means of grace" He has provided.

Peter lists seven characteristics of the godly life (2 Peter 1:5-7): Virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness, and charity. We develop one quality as we exercise another. 

2 Peter 1:8 For if these things be in you and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Godliness is intensely practical. Godly people make right and noble decissions. They don't take the easy path simply to avoid pain or trial. They do what is right because it is the will of God.